It was shy of two months when I finally got the opportunity to invite one of my dear friends over to my new place. We were having an intimate vision board party when we started talking about my living experience. I started listing all the things I loved about my cozy studio when my friend asked me if I met any of my neighbors. I contemplated her question for a few seconds and quickly realized I had not crossed paths with more than two neighbors. It was interesting, to say the least. Especially, when I considered the nature of the apartment structure…think about a dorm room or hotel.
We continued to think about all the possibilities resulting in the lack of run in’s I had with my neighbors. During our conversation, one statement stuck with me and has not left me since.
“…behind every door is a thought…another life” – N.M.
Though simple, I found the statement profound. The statement made me ask myself questions pertaining to the possible lifestyles of my neighbors. Did they enjoy peace and quiet? Maybe they worked multiple jobs or long hours? Did they enjoy the outdoors and rather spend every second outside of their living quarters?
If anything, the conversation I had with my friend re-emphasized the fact that we are all going through life together.
Basically, no one is an island.
Do you think about what others may be going through daily? Do you feel it is necessary?
At times it is so easy to get wrapped up in your own world that you forget others are living right beside you. Oftentimes, their challenges and desires are similar if not the same as yours. While your method to obtain your needs and goals may differ your basic needs and goals probably compare with your neighbor more often than you think. Here let’s think of our neighbors in the literal sense but also figuratively as in people you may encounter throughout your life.
If you are reading this article, I strongly believe you are the type of individual who strives to become a better version of yourself daily. Without a doubt, one way to become a better individual is to not only treat yourself with dignity, love, and respect but also those around you. You have the power to enhance your life and the lives of others through your actions and mindset.
During all the conflict and sometimes division in society, it is important to remember ways in which we can be better neighbors to those around us.
Here you will find a list of ways to be a better neighbor and all-around person-
How to Be a Better Neighbor
Extend grace
During times of misunderstanding, when you are upset or when you do not care for someone you should still extend grace. You should extend grace just as you would want grace to be extended to you.
Respect Boundaries
This should go without saying but you should respect other’s boundaries just as you expect them to respect yours. I wrote an entire post on how to create boundaries and the importance of boundaries just in case you want to read more about it. When you respect the boundaries of others you help create safe and productive environments. Further encouraging the growth of others and yourself.
Don’t Project Negative Emotions
Projecting your emotions onto others is sometimes easy to do. Especially, when you are not aware of yourself. Journaling your thoughts and feelings as well as learning how to reflect on the way you react to others will help you identify times when you may have projected your emotions onto others. Additionally, these tasks will help you identify times and situations when you need to address your emotions and their beginnings.
Be Open and Tolerant of Differences
You can learn so much from people who are different than you whether by birthplace, values, beliefs, occupations and the list can go on. Being open to learning and tolerating things that are new to you will greatly enrich your life and possibly open doors to new relationships.
Be Kind
The golden rule “treat others the way you would like to be treated” does not seem like it will go out of style anytime soon. I am a strong believer that you reap what you sow. So, when you put out good things will come back to you. Additionally, you never know how a smile or simple manners can positively add to someone’s day. You are meant to be a blessing to others. One easy way to be one is to be kind.
Be Content
In no way am I saying you should not strive for more. However, on your journey towards reaching your goals, it is so important to express gratitude. When you are content with what you have you will be able to genuinely share in other’s happiness when they are excited or blessed with an opportunity or gift.
At the end of the day, we are all going through something and we all need similar if not the same things. So, it is important to show love and grace to ourselves and our neighbors.
How do you strive to be a better person and neighbor? I would love to hear from you so feel free to share anything that crossed your mind while reading this article.
As always,
Peace, Love, and Joy!
~Shalanda
